Published: 10 November 2026
Short answer: To attend the Canton Fair from the Philippines, register online as an overseas buyer, apply for a Chinese business (M) visa through the Chinese Visa Application Service Center in Manila, and fly to Guangzhou Baiyun Airport. The 141st session runs in three phases between 15 April and 5 May 2027, so start the visa process at least a month before your phase.
This Canton Fair Philippines guide covers dates, visa steps, flights and planning tips for Filipino business owners. For the venue and transport in Guangzhou, see our Canton Fair 2027 guide.
Canton Fair 2027 dates for Filipino buyers
| Phase | Dates (141st session, official) | Theme |
|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 | 15–19 April 2027 | Advanced Manufacturing |
| Phase 2 | 23–27 April 2027 | Quality Home Life |
| Phase 3 | 1–5 May 2027 | Better Life |
Choose your phase by product first. Our Canton Fair phases guide lists the categories in each phase.
Do Filipinos need a visa for the Canton Fair?
Yes. Philippine ordinary passport holders need a visa to enter mainland China. For trade fairs and meetings with suppliers, the usual choice is the business (M) visa.
- Register as an overseas buyer on the Canton Fair Buyer Service System and generate the official invitation letter. Our Canton Fair registration guide explains each step.
- Fill in the online visa application. The Chinese Embassy in the Philippines launched its online visa system on 13 October 2025.
- After you receive the Visa Application Certificate by email, submit your documents at the Chinese Visa Application Service Center in Manila.
- Prepare a passport valid for at least six months, a recent photo, the invitation letter and your business documents.
However, requirements can change, so check the current checklist on the Chinese Visa Application Service Center in Manila before you apply.
Flights from Manila to Guangzhou
Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport has direct flights from Manila. Fares and hotel prices rise sharply during each phase, so book early. From the airport, the Canton Fair Complex in Pazhou is about 50 minutes away by taxi, depending on traffic, or you can take the metro to Pazhou Station on Line 8.
Before you order: bringing goods into the Philippines
Meeting a supplier is only the start. In addition to price and minimum order, check whether your product needs a permit or registration in the Philippines before you pay a deposit, and calculate the landed cost including freight, duty and VAT.
Visit the Canton Fair with AsiaCommerce
Our China business trip brings buyers to the Canton Fair and to supplier markets in Guangzhou. After the trip, our team can check regulations, buy and ship the goods you choose through the import procurement solution. Contact us for the next departure and package details.
Canton Fair Philippines FAQ
Can Filipinos attend the Canton Fair?
Yes. Filipino business owners register online as overseas buyers, and the buyer badge is free.
Which visa do Filipinos need for the Canton Fair?
Most Filipino buyers apply for a business (M) visa, using the Canton Fair invitation letter as a supporting document.
When is the next Canton Fair?
The 141st session takes place from 15 April to 5 May 2027 in three phases.
Sources: Canton Fair official website; Chinese Visa Application Service Center in Manila; CVASC Manila: online visa application system.